Messy Garage Got You Depressed?
Is your messy garage getting you down?
For many people, this is a major problem. They have a 2 or 3 car garage, and can’t pull a car into it or find anything.
I receive calls about this all the time. The call usually starts like this: “Do you do garage organization?” I ask what kind and they say, “I don’t know.” I tell them that the first step is for me to take a look at the garage and help them inventory their items.
I then ask them to go through their things, and I always suggest getting rid of anything that they haven’t used in six months, except for tools. This usually does not fly with most people. I suggest that they sell some items on www.craigslist.org. Earning a little money for the things you have to let go of makes it a little easier.
Then, we discuss what they want to use the garage for. To assist with organization, I usually recommend 3 things right away.
- High loft shelves-Hung from the ceiling
- Wall Panels-At least one wall
- Cabinets-At least one wall
Sometimes I do more, but these three accessories can transform your garage.
The high loft shelves can be found at any home improvement store. There are many places online that sell a wide variety of shelving. They are relatively inexpensive, simple to install and they make a big difference. However, I will be honest and tell you that they do take longer to install than the manufacturers sometimes claim. I’ve installed quite a few over the years, and it takes me anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes. The instructions usually claim 30 min.
If at all possible, I install them above the overhead door. In my opinion, this is the most wasted space in a garage. The high loft shelves are really strong and when installed correctly, can hold up to 300 lbs. depending on the project. I recommend storing things in boxes on the shelf that you don’t use very much, since you will need a ladder to access the racks.
The next step is to install wall panels. Wall panels are sheets of vinyl that are fastened to the garage walls. The panels have tracks, and bracket accessories slide into the tracks, which you can use to hang tools, shoe racks, ladders and even toys. They are great! Everything hangs on the wall, and with the tracks you can move them really easily.
Lastly, I always propose installing 3 cabinets to put small things in. You will be amazed at how much these three details can change your garage.
If you really want to trick out your garage, you dont have to stop there!
You can purchase garage decor, custom flooring, custom lighting, and even epoxy the floor. The possibilities are limitless!
For some great ideas about what you can do to make your garage your favorite part of the house, visit Car Guy Garage
Troy Tarter
http://tarterhomemaintenance.com
